Mitti, which translates to “earth” or “soil” in several South Asian languages, is a festival that aims to capture and evoke the scent of rain on dry ground, the weight of ancestry, and the transnational nature of South Asian identity. Curated as both a homecoming and a departure, Mitti offers a space to trace the emotional, social, and spiritual geographies that connect the region and its many diasporas. The inaugural edition of Mitti, an Indian independent film festival, will take place from November 21 to 27, 2025. The festival is presented by District by Zomato in partnership with Alserkal Avenue and Bagri Foundation and supported by Zee Aflam and Zee Cinema as the official media partners. Through a week-long program featuring 7 independent films, archival works, workshops, and conversations, it will bring together artists and audiences from across India and its global communities. Pinch (2023) by Uttera Singh, a poignant exploration of generational memory and cultural inheritance, followed by a virtual Q&A with the director.